Taylor, who will be aiming to match Cuban boxing legend Felix Savon’s all-time record of six successive AIBA World Elite titles in Kazakhstan next May, said the accolade was the icing on the cake.

“I’m just so honoured and humbled to receive this award. I’d like to thank ANOC for such a great evening and I’d like to thank the Olympic Council of Ireland and Pat Hickey for their continuous support, she said.

“I’d also like to thank my family. Their support and encouragement throughout the years has been unfailing to me. I’d be nowhere without them. This is just the icing on the cake for me this year.”

The best male and best female athlete from each of the five Continental Games

Last night’s ANOC Awards honoured the best male and female athletes from each of the five Continental Games this year.